Alright, I learned a ton about boats and their construction today and was all excited about an Excel at the dealer until I got home and started reading. It seems there have been enough problems with their quality/durability that I'm less excited and more concerned. Most of these issues were with bottoms and/or transoms not holding up. Is this something that would be fixed by ordering one with the .125" 5086 upgraded construction? I guess the other big issue I that in every instance Excel and Mud Buddy customer service has been well below par (just from my research). On top of all that, the issue of the foam in the bottom of the boat that ultimately gets wet and heavy has me looking elsewhere. In all fairness, I did read several people that love their Excels. Am I over thinking this? If not, where should I look for a hull brand?
What about Gatortrax? And which surface drive should I pair with it?
To help out, it seems that .125 5086 construction is a must, preferably no foam, and probably with a hunt deck. Are these accurate assumptions? I am looking at 1860 size but 1854 would do in the correct configuration (I like the extra space).
Thanks in advance!